Elliott Wave Analysis
The chart appears to be utilizing Elliott Wave Theory, which breaks down market movements into impulsive and corrective waves. Here's how it plays out:
Impulsive Wave (1)-(5):
The first wave count indicates that XAU/USD completed an impulsive five-wave structure (labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). In Elliott Wave Theory, impulsive waves align with the primary trend direction. This likely represents the upward movement, suggesting that the broader trend for gold has been bullish over the last few trading days.
Corrective Wave A-B-C:
After the impulsive wave, the market appears to be entering a corrective phase, labeled as Wave A-B-C. Corrective waves typically move against the main trend, so this correction is likely part of a retracement before another impulsive wave could develop.
In the short term, a potential Wave C (the third wave of correction) could unfold, which typically retraces a portion of the impulsive move. This means that a temporary pullback in XAU/USD prices is expected.
Break of Structure (BOS)
The chart highlights a Break of Structure (BOS), which is a key price level where the market shows a significant reversal or shift in trend. This BOS likely aligns with key levels of support or resistance being broken, suggesting that sellers might have temporarily gained control, causing a retracement or consolidation.
BOS on a High Timeframe (H): This could indicate that the long-term bullish structure remains intact, but short-term corrections might occur as the market consolidates around this level.
Wyckoff Phase & Accumulation/Distribution
The mention of Wyckoff Phase B suggests that the market could be in an accumulation or distribution phase, based on Wyckoff’s methodology.
Accumulation typically occurs when large institutions (Smart Money) are quietly buying during periods of low volatility, pushing prices higher afterward. In contrast, distribution is when institutions sell during periods of relatively stable prices, signaling a potential downturn.
Since it is labeled "Phase B," it could mean that gold is undergoing an accumulation or consolidation process. Watch for a breakout above the current range, which could lead to another impulsive wave upward.
Harmonic Pattern Zones
The shaded areas on the chart might indicate potential harmonic pattern completion zones, such as a Gartley or Butterfly pattern. These patterns typically signal reversal points based on Fibonacci ratios.
The purple zone might represent an important Fibonacci retracement or extension level where a reversal or continuation of the trend could occur. This zone serves as a critical area for price reaction, either providing a reversal back up or a continuation to the downside.
Support and Resistance Levels
Several key price levels are noted in the chart that traders should watch for potential entry or exit opportunities:
Buy Stop Level at 2,681.565:
This could be a planned buy-stop order that triggers when the price breaks through a resistance level, possibly indicating a continuation of the upward movement if the corrective wave concludes and the impulsive trend resumes.
Current Price around 2,673.096:
The current price level represents a near-term point of decision. If the price breaks above, it could continue upward, confirming a bullish trend. Conversely, if it breaks below key support levels, we could see further downside as the corrective phase continues.
Stop-Loss and Leg Protection:
There are additional stop-loss recommendations around 2,645.655 and lower protected swing points that align with the previous structure. These stop levels likely coincide with recent lows or key Fibonacci levels, providing protection against adverse movements.
Market Sentiment and Key Risk Events
Gold’s price movement will likely be influenced by key economic data and Fed speeches next week. Here’s what to watch for:
Hawkish Fed Commentary could pressure gold downward as the U.S. dollar strengthens and yields rise.
Conversely, dovish signals or weak U.S. data (like disappointing retail sales or softer inflation data) could lead to a weaker dollar, making gold more attractive and pushing prices upward.
Next Week’s Plan
Short-Term View (Corrective Phase Completion):
Expect XAU/USD to complete the current corrective A-B-C pattern, with a potential pullback before resuming the upward trend. This correction could offer buying opportunities around key Fibonacci levels or after price interacts with the identified support zones.
Look for Breakout Confirmation:
If the price breaks above 2,681.565, it could confirm the end of the correction and the start of the next impulsive wave up. Watch for any breakouts from the current consolidation range, especially if prices start closing above resistance levels.
Risk Management:
Manage risk by placing stop-loss orders below recent swing lows (like around 2,645.655) to protect against deeper corrections. Consider using the buy-stop setup noted in the chart to catch upward momentum.
Long-Term View:
If the upward impulsive trend continues after the corrective phase, the next significant price targets could be above 2,700 and potentially higher depending on the broader macroeconomic outlook.
In summary, the next week’s outlook for XAU/USD focuses on the potential completion of a corrective wave, followed by a resumption of the bullish trend. Key levels to watch are 2,681.565 for breakout confirmation and 2,645.655 for potential downside protection. Stay updated on U.S. economic data and Fed speeches to gauge any shifts in market sentiment.